Word Origin & History

alive c.1200, from O.E. on life "in living." The fuller form on live was still current 17c. Alive and kicking "alert, vigorous," attested from 1859; "The allusion is to a child in the womb after quickening" [Farmer].

Example Sentences for look alive

"Look alive as soon as you can do it," Mary heard him say to them, and wondered.

Don't be talking now, but look alive, and I'll keep his sister off if need be.

The thing for you to do is to keep your eyes peeled and look alive.

All right, Tommy; let them look alive with the women and children; get up a light if you can.